Minnesota Twins Game Grades: Both Split Squads Win

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Mar 22, 2016; Clearwater, FL, USA; Minnesota Twins designated hitter Daniel Palka (99) celebrates with Minnesota Twins third base coach Gene Glynn (13) after he hits a home run against he Philadelphia Phillies during the fourth inning at Bright House Field. Mandatory Credit: Butch Dill-USA TODAY Sports /

Phil Hughes started for the Twins at Bright House Field. His outing was a mixed bag. He allowed 4 earned, on 9 hits but he also struck out 9 in in 5.1 innings and didn’t walk anyone.

Dan Runzler followed Hughes with 1.2 innings allowing a walk and no runs. Ryan Pressly allowed an earned run on 2 hits and a walk in the 8th inning. J.R Graham pitched a clean 9th with a strikeout.

Byung Ho Park got the scoring going in the 1st inning with an RBI double. Daniel Palka hit a solo shot in the 2nd and connected for a solo shot again in the 4th. The Twins were behind until the 7th when they broke out with 4 runs. Travis Harrison and Eddie Rosario had RBI singles and Byung Ho Park hit a sac fly.

7. 2. Final. 5. 6

B+. 11 hits, 2 walks, 14 strikeouts, 2 home runs and 4 for 11 with runners in scoring position. Byron Buxton and Danny Santana had two hit days and stolen bases, Park and Rosario had two RBI days but Daniel Palka’s 2 hits were both home runs. The first base prospect acquired this winter gets the unexpected special mention. . . Daniel Palka. OFFENSE

Dan Runzler. PITCHING . C+. Team totals: 11 hits allowed, 2 walks, no home runs and 11 strikeouts. We’ll give the special mention to Dan Runzler for his scoreless 1.2 innings. .

Next: Carlos Quentin is making a push

The Twins will face the Tampa Bay Rays tomorrow afternoon at CenturyLink Sports Complex. First pitch is at 12:05 CST. Ricky Nolasco will get the start. Twins roster. The game will be broadcast on FSN.